Woolworths to cease purchasing Tasmanian beef by 2027 over cost pressures

Woolworths confirmed that, starting in 2027, it will no longer stock beef sourced from Tasmania, attributing the shift to higher production costs and costly freight across Bass Strait. The company will end its relationship with JBS Foods' Longford abattoir, which currently handles the killing and processing of the cattle. Jerrod Nichols, a Scottsdale farmer who has been delivering roughly 40 head of cattle fortnightly, said the loss of the contract undermines the security that had supported his investment in the sector.

He also highlighted the high kill fees and the need to ship carcasses to Victoria for processing as unsustainable. Woolworths said it will support impacted farmers through the transition period and will continue buying other Tasmanian produce. The decision leaves Tasmania with fewer market outlets, as Coles also does not purchase Tasmanian beef or pork, though it remains a major buyer of Tasmanian lamb.